Andrew O'Hara
To go alongside the latest iPhones — the XS and XS Max — Apple has updated its lineup of first-party cases, which include leather, silicone and folio options. AppleInsider goes hands-on with the accessories to see what has changed and find out if they are compatible with the iPhone X.
All of Apple's cases are great quality while staying minimalist in nature. They are thin, with tactile buttons and made from premium materials. The leather cases all utilize anodized aluminum buttons on the sides, always a nice touch. Interiors are lined with microfiber on each case, protecting the iPhone from loose debris.
On the underside, the bottom of the phone is exposed, a design that has its pros and cons. We prefer this design as it allows easier access to ports and works seamlessly with many docks, but at the same time it opens more of the phone up to possible damage.
Last year, the folio was exclusively available for the iPhone X, but this year it comes in two different sizes for the XS and XS Max.
Colors for everyone
Externally, the biggest change to all of the cases is a smattering of new colors.
Silicone cases now come in Nectarine, Lavender Gray, Blue Horizon, Stone, Pink Sand, Midnight Blue, White, Black, and (PRODUCT)Red while the leather case will be available in Peony Pink, Cape Code Blue, Forest Green, Taupe, Midnight Blue, Saddle Brown, Black, and (PRODUCT)Red. The leather folio comes in Peony Pink, Cape Code Blue, Forest Green, Black, (PRODUCT)Red.
Changes between X and XS cases
Notable changes between last year's cases and the models offered in 2018 include slight tweaks to the camera bump cutout. The latest iPhone's have a slightly larger camera bump, which could cause compatibility issues when using the new cases with iPhone X. If you put any of Apple's iPhone XS cases on an iPhone X, you will notice a slight gap around the otherwise precision-designed case.
There are also changes to the arrangement of the Hall Effect sensors between generations. The auto wake/sleep functionality doesn't work when using the iPhone XS folio on the iPhone X, and vice versa.
Where to buy
Right now, the cases are available exclusively through Apple. Silicone cases cost $39 and the leather run $49. If you'd like the leather folio, it runs $99 and $129 for the iPhone XS and XS Max, respectively.
Apple's cases not doing it for you? Check out AppleInsider's roundup of excellent iPhone XS and XS Max cases that are available now.
Marko Zivkovic
Wesley Hilliard
Andrew Orr
Christine McKee
Malcolm Owen
Amber Neely
17 Comments
I bought my very first ever Apple silicone case just a month ago for my 6s Plus only because I needed a change and it was a discounted “open box” item at Best Buy and I gotta say, at first I liked it a lot. But after about a week, it didn’t feel the same. Now when I touch it, I feel like my hands are grimy and dirty. I feel like it holds onto dirt and dust and skin oils very easily. AND it pulls the entire pocket lining out of my pants every time I pull the phone out. It’s very annoying!
So I will be going back to a new Speck case (my favorite) unless.....I upgrade my phone. Im not a big fan of the notch or the rear camera, BUT.....stay tuned... :wink:
I’m loving how many posts you guys have been doing, been following you for a while and seems you have so much content and great reviews. Bet nobody says it but we appreciate it!
I was going to go nake with the Xs Max in Silver but there will be situations where I need a case so I purchase the leather Forest Green case at Apple store online $49 plus sales tax or around $53. Coming tomorrow ahead of my new iPhone!
Just wondering when it became normal to spend $40 on a piece of moulded plastic with silicone film or $50 for moulded leather. Don't get me started on the folio cases.
I ordered the XS leather folio in black from Best Buy. For some reason they’re selling it for $49 in that color instead of $99 for the other colors. I jumped at the opportunity...hoping it’s not a mistake.